Central Park

Winter Jam Brings The Mountain To Central Park

Yesterday Central Park received some of the first snow in this largely snow-free winter. Although there was no snow last Saturday for Winter Jam 2008, that did not stop us from improvising!

While it was too warm to make snow for cross-country skiing, we were able to bring winter to Central Park with our first-ever snow flume, by chipping mass quantities of ice -- 27 tons! New Yorkers were thus able to experience sledding down a two-story high, 80-foot long snow flume, all for free.

“Winter Jam 2008 in Central Park and Union Square Street Sessions brought the mountain to New Yorkers – with a sledding hill, fresh winter produce, warm drinks and hot music, this year's festival offered something to bring the entire family out of hibernation,” said Commissioner Benepe.

Participants also got cozy with hot drinks in the Warming Hut and snacks from the Winter Greenmarkets. Live performances included artists such as The White Tie Affair and Kat DeLuna. Olympic medallists bobsledder Todd Hayes and luger Gordy Sheer joined New Yorkers in winter fun at the Olympic luge display.

“We are very happy to bring the joy of winter sports and activities to New York City. Lake Placid is an icon in winter sports, and New York State has a multitude of winter destinations, large and small, that fit everyone’s preferences,” said Ted Blazer, the president and CEO of the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA). “This week, winter definitely came to life in the Big Apple.”

After hours of free sledding on the snow flume, provided by Aura360, the slope broke down into a rail jam competition that brought snowboarders and skiers into Central Park. More than 100 amateur winter sports lovers hit the rails at the popular Rail Jam Open.

The event was sponsored by the Olympic Regional Development Authority, I LOVE NY (ESDC), Aura360, Crocs, Lake Placid, Gore Mountain, the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets, Metro, Hot 97, KISS FM, Seventeen Magazine and Norelco.